Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is not a condition limited to adults; it can also affect children. CKD in children refers to the gradual loss of kidney function over time.

The kidneys play an important role in the body by filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood. They also help maintain electrolyte balance and produce hormones that regulate blood pressure and red blood cell production. When the kidneys do not function properly, it can cause a number of health issues.

Common causes of chronic kidney disease in children

Several factors can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) in children, among others:

Urinary tract problems that develop before birth

Issues with the urinary tract that develop in the womb are a leading cause of CKD in children. Conditions like renal dysplasia, where the kidneys don’t develop correctly, or congenital urinary tract obstructions, which block the normal flow of urine, can impair kidney function.

Problems with glomeruli (kidney filters)

Two major conditions, such as minimal change disease and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) can significantly impact kidney function in children. Minimal change disease is the most common cause of nephrotic syndrome, characterized by a significant leakage of protein into the urine due to glomerular damage.

FSGS is a more severe condition that causes gradual kidney function decline. "Focal" means that only some glomeruli develop scarring, while others remain normal, and "segmental" refers to only part of the glomerulus being affected.

Certain types of infections

Infections in children are often linked to kidney damage, particularly recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), as well as hepatitis B and C infections.

Recurrent UTIs can lead to long-term kidney damage, especially if not treated correctly. If your child has a persistent fever, pain while urinating, frequent urination, or abdominal pain, they should see a doctor.

Hepatitis B and C not only affect the liver but can also inflame the glomeruli of the kidneys, increasing the risk of developing chronic kidney disease.

Other health issues

Other health problems, such as lupus and type 1 diabetes, can cause kidney damage that may lead to chronic kidney disease. Lupus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the body’s tissues, including the kidneys. People with lupus often experience fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and fever.

In children, uncontrolled type 1 diabetes can lead to complications, including kidney damage. Type 1 diabetes is also an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.

Chronic kidney disease in children can be a serious condition. Children with this disease often experience stunted growth because damaged kidneys cannot produce the hormones needed for normal bone growth.

It is important to take your child to the doctor if they show signs of changes in urination patterns, excessive fatigue, unexplained weight loss, stunted growth, or swelling in the face, ankles, or hands.

You can also make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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